Mzansi Newspaper

04/09/2025

Uncle Waffles Steps Into Executive Producer Role for Bridges For Music’s Upcoming Mix It Up Vol.4


Uncle Waffles to Lead Bridges For Music’s Most Ambitious Release Yet, Curating Global Soundscape for Upcoming Mix It Up Vol.4

Johannesburg, Thursday, 4 September 2025 – Global Amapiano sensation Uncle Waffles is stepping into a new role: Executive Producer of Mix It Up Vol.4, the highly anticipated EP from BFM Records, the label arm of non-profit, South African organization, Bridges For Music.

The move comes on the back of Uncle Waffles’ powerful showing on Bridges For Music’s Ubuntu Stage at EDC Las Vegas in 2024, where she represented South Africa at one of the world’s biggest dance music festivals. Her performance marked a defining moment for amapiano on the global stage, and cemented her relationship with Bridges For Music, who are now entrusting her with steering one of their flagship projects.

As Executive Producer of Mix It Up Vol.4, Uncle Waffles has hand-selected the producers and shaped the creative process, ensuring the EP reflects both the authenticity of African soundscapes and the global spirit of collaboration. The release will see some of the hottest names in international music – Ghetts, Fave, Chy Cartier, and more, collaborating with top South African producers including Royal MusiQ, TK Creedlion, Ice Beats Slide, Sbuda Maleather, and Makhanj.

With three previous volumes, Mix It Up has become a movement. Spearheaded by Bridges For Music and released under BFM Records, the project builds cultural bridges by pairing African grassroots talent with global stars. From taking township-born artists like Athie Umgido and Rudy Julius to international festival stages in Poland, Thailand, and Amsterdam, to offering platforms like the Ubuntu Stage at EDC, the organization continues to prove that music can open doors across borders.

For Uncle Waffles, this moment is not only about curating tracks but about amplifying the very ethos she embodies: boldness, experimentation, and global impact. “Mix It Up has always been about bringing the world to Africa and taking Africa to the world. I’m proud to be part of shaping that story,” she shares.

Mix It Up Vol.4 is due for release on 19 September 2025, promising infectious rhythms, global collaborations, and a showcase of what happens when creativity crosses continents. For now, anticipation builds as Uncle Waffles’ vision prepares to take centre stage. Pre-add / pre-save Mix It Up Vol.4 now: https://paradise.ffm.to/miu4

Connect with Bridges For Music:
Facebook:
Instagram:
Website: http://www.bridgesformusic.org

04/09/2025

Wandile Mbambeni Unveils Soulful New Single “Time Will Tell” Ahead of Upcoming EP You Love Who You Love

Johannesburg, Thursday, 4 September 2025 – Singer-Songwriter Wandile Mbambeni has released his new country blues single, “Time Will Tell”, a moving reflection on patience, healing, and the quiet power of faith. The track marks the official lead single from his forthcoming EP You Love Who You Love, a project that delves deep into the raw truths of love and redemption.

With Time Will Tell, Wandile Mbambeni continues to affirm his reputation as one of South Africa’s most compelling voices. The song is carried by stripped-back instrumentation, smoky textures, and his unmistakable vocal delivery, intimate yet commanding. It paints a portrait of waiting, surrender, and trusting in the timing of life and love.

The upcoming EP You Love Who You Love is described by Wandile Mbambeni as a soul-baring journey through struggle, heartbreak, and ultimately, hope. Blending folk, country blues, warm R&B tones, and gospel-rooted soul, the project captures what it means to love in all its complexity, sometimes messy, sometimes painful, but always real.

Speaking on the new single, Wandile shares:
“‘Time Will Tell’ is about trusting the process. It’s about knowing that no matter how uncertain life feels, truth and healing always reveal themselves with time.”

Wandile’s rise has been remarkable — from busking on the streets of East London and Germany to gracing stages alongside Snoh Aalegra, PJ Morton, and Milky Chance. With over half a million cumulative streams in the EP with songs like Hey Lord, I Don’t Regret It and A Father’s Prayer, and international recognition on Apple TV’s My Kind of Country in Nashville, he has steadily become a defining voice in South Africa’s new wave of soulful storytellers.

Time Will Tell is available now on all digital platforms, with the full EP You Love Who You Love set to follow later this year on the 31st of October.

04/09/2025

CRUSH YAM: Airburn Sounds teases infectious new single

DJ and producer returns with brand new single CRUSH YAM with Mawhoo featuring Optimist Music ZA and BoontleRSA

JOHANNESBURG, 4 AUGUST: Renowned Producer and DJ Airburn Sounds is set to release his long-awaited single CRUSH YAM with singer Mawhoo featuring Optimist Music SA and BoontleRSA.

The song is set to be released on Friday 12 September 2025.

CRUSH YAM is a soothing and melodic sound that represents longing.
It is a heartfelt expression wrapped in rhythm and melody.

CRUSH YAM plays on the innocence of fancying someone and never seeing it through, the permanent longing, but the fear of disappointment.
The lyrics tell a story of romance,affection, and the desire to be loved with a gentle and emotive beat.

The rhythmic Amapiano beat is playful, but like a heartbeat trembling yet allows one to dance. Each music note is like poetry combined with dance. It is a mellow yet upbeat Amapiano song that infuses a soothing guitar.

Mawhoos' feminine vocals create a balance. Both the male and female vocalists explore their vulnerability and shyness in their approach of being in love.

Airburn Sounds says CRUSH YAM is a lighthearted song. It feels like a page from a secret diary, one kept their secrets, it's tender and vulnerable.

“It is a light-hearted, romantic song. It’s almost very poetic Amapiano. But also a universal sound for both young and old.”

BoontleRSA describes the song as fun, playful, and melodic.
“Everyone can relate to the song. Everyone has been in love or had a crush they fear talking to.”

Mawhoo says the song is different from anything she has done.
“It’s innocent, explores vulnerability, and is just a fun song.”

Optimist Music ZA said making the song came naturally and easily.
“We have all had crushes, and the making of the song was organic, natural, and unforced. This is why the light airiness of the song speaks to everyone.”

QUESTION AND ANSWERS
1. How did the collaboration with these three artists come about?
I had always wanted to work with Mawhoo. Mawhoo hosted a music camp, orking towards her album. I had set up my studio at the camp as one of the head producers. We made a lot of songs. But Crush Yam stood out. BoontleRSA first came up with the melody for the hook. Mawhoo loved it and jumped on it. Optimist then came in at the end of the song.

The music was initially meant to be on Mawhoo’s album, but it didn’t make it due to technical issues. However, it worked well for everyone because we took the time to work on it. We re-recorded her verse and added some guitar.

2. When and how long did it take to work on the music?
I worked on the beat. The song took a few hours to put together. But we kept it and went back to make some adjustments. You know, as an artist, a song is never complete - there will always be something you feel you could have done better.

3. What was the inspiration behind the song Crush Yam?
It’s a really mellow, chilled Amapiano love song that everyone can relate to - all ages, all races. Not complicated. It’s a simple song, fun and great for the coming summer.

4. What are you currently working on?
I am already finishing up my next release which will be a single coming out end of the month featuring Zuma, Azi and S’Villa. Will announce everything soon. Then, after that, I will be releasing my EP - star-studded. Big names, great songs, and just good music. Theres a lot on the pipeline.

5. Describe your sound?
My sound is Soulful, Afro-soul mixed with Amapiano. Crush Yam has an Afro Soul guitar, so it makes the Amapiano sound very different to what people are used to. I am very versatile. I started out making Afrobeats and Hip-Hop. Now, I’m exploring Amapiano infused with Kwaito - that wave is coming in hard. I produced something amazing for Stilo Magolide with the same sound. But my style cant really be boxed

04/09/2025

Daliwonga Sino Msolo and Khuzani to Headline Braam Culture Fest 2025 at Constitutional Hill
Johannesburg, South Africa – 4 September 2025 – The countdown has begun for Braam Culture Fest 2025, and the energy in Johannesburg is impossible to ignore. With less than a week until the festival takes over Constitutional Hill in Braamfontein on Saturday, 6 September, organisers have officially unveiled the Phase Two line-up, placing Daliwonga, Sino Msolo and Khuzani at the very top of the bill.
Recognised as Johannesburg’s premier street urban culture celebration, Braam Culture Fest is not just about music — it is about how sound, fashion, food, and art collide to create the ultimate lifestyle experience. Supported by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture and the Department of Arts and Culture, the festival has carved out its space alongside national favourites like Cotton Fest, Spring Fiesta, and Hey Neighbour.
This year’s Phase Two announcement completes the line-up with a blend of A-list stars and rising talents. Alongside Daliwonga, Sino Msolo, and Khuzani, fans can look forward to sets from Mvzzle, Ntokzin, Kaygee The Vibe, TNK Musiq, Goonflavour, Bizzcuit, Yo. Miyra, Mordecai, Edwin 016, Miss Hilary, Kmass (YFM), Vulelma Weekend, and Pwedy Sawciie (VIP Host). Holding it all together on stage will be the dynamic Phindi Black as MC.
Festival co-founder Siyabonga Mashlangu says the carefully curated line-up is a bold reflection of Johannesburg’s creative energy and a clear signal of the festival’s growing cultural influence.
“Our dream for Braam Culture Fest has always been to build a platform that reflects the true rhythm of Johannesburg. To have artists like Daliwonga, Sino Msolo, and Khuzani leading our line-up alongside new names who represent the next wave is a powerful statement. This is more than entertainment — it is about giving the city a stage where its creativity, diversity, and resilience shine. On 6 September, Constitutional Hill will not just host a festival, it will host the pulse of a generation.”
His fellow co-founder, Khona Mdaki, highlighted the symbolic choice of venue and the festival’s broader role in shaping Johannesburg’s cultural economy.
“Braamfontein is the creative capital of Johannesburg, and Constitutional Hill carries the weight of history and the promise of the future. Hosting Braam Culture Fest here is not an accident — it is a deliberate choice to honour our past while celebrating the energy of today’s youth culture. Beyond the music, this festival is about economic empowerment. It is about local food vendors, fashion designers, sneaker culture, and street artists sharing in the spotlight. This is how culture becomes both celebration and opportunity.”
The festival will unfold across three curated levels: Level 1 for Amapiano and Hip-Hop headliners, Level 2 for Gqom and Afro-house innovators, and Level 3 for underground and up-and-coming talent. Off-stage, festivalgoers can expect sneaker activations, live art installations, pop-up fashion showcases, and a food village that blends township street food with gourmet offerings.
Organisers have also confirmed that safety, accessibility, and inclusivity remain central to their planning, with enhanced event management protocols in place to ensure a secure and welcoming environment for thousands of attendees expected on the day.
Tickets are available via Webtickets:
• General: R150
• VIP: R500
www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=15726999467
Event Details
Date: Saturday, 6 September 2025
Venue: Constitutional Hill, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Genres: Amapiano, Hip-Hop, Gqom, Afro-house, and more
Journalists who wish to attend Braam Culture Fest 2025 can RSVP for media accreditation here: Media Accreditation Form

For media interviews with artists or festival founders, please contact Lwazi Nongauza at 074 461 9084.

About Braam Culture Fest

Braam Culture Fest is an annual urban lifestyle and music celebration founded by Siyabonga Mashlangu and Khona Mdaki. Hosted in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, the festival brings together top performers and emerging voices across multiple genres, alongside fashion, food, and street culture. The event creates opportunities for local businesses and creatives while contributing to the city’s cultural and economic vibrancy.

Webtickets

03/09/2025

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

Johannesburg, South Africa — Joburg’s favourite artisanal playground returns this spring with a bold celebration of 10 years of creativity, community and local entrepreneurship.

Now in its third instalment of a year-long 10th birthday celebration, The Linden Market Spring Edition is a high-energy weekend packed with live music, interactive experiences, dog-friendly fun and handmade treasures from the country’s most exciting makers.

On Saturday 27 & Sunday 28 September 2025, The Linden Market will transform the Emmarentia Botanical Gardens into a bustling showcase of SA talent, style, and soul — and you’re invited.

For the past decade, the Linden Market has been more than a market — it’s about building a community. A platform where makers thrive, visitors connect, and Johannesburg’s creative spirit shines. This Spring, join the celebration and help shape the next decade of community, commerce, and culture.

And marking a major milestone, the Linden Market has partnered with a local high school as it unveils its first-ever anthem: “We Build Together (Siyakhe Sonke)” which will debut live at the Spring Edition of the market.

The song will be performed by idols finalist Suzzi Swanepoel and folk singer Lungleo Moyo, alongside the Greenside High Choir. Composed and produced by Wesley West with lyrics written by the Linden Market’s own Stachia Conradie, the track blends powerful vocals, rich harmonies and heartfelt lyrics to capture the heartbeat of Jozi’s creative scene. The song is a heartfelt tribute to the makers, bakers and dreamers who’ve helped shape The Linden Market into a platform for small business success and community growth over the past 10 years.

“This song is a tribute to every entrepreneur who’s set up before sunrise and to every visitor who’s chosen to support local products. Those priceless moments where Jozi’s spirit has come alive and thrives, it's all thanks to you. Siyakhe Sonke is our thank-you and our promise to keep building together for the next decade.” said market director Stachia Conradie.


SO WHAT ELSE CAN YOU EXPECT AT THE MARKET

Live Music: A dynamic line-up of local talent sets the vibe, inviting visitors to feel the rhythm of the city.

Food Trucks & Craft Drinks: Feast your way through street food favourites, gourmet bites, and a selection of local craft beers and cocktails.

Artisans & Makers Market: Discover over 150 hand-picked vendors offering fashion, décor, art, jewellery, skincare, and more — all crafted with heart.

Preloved Thrifters Paradise ft. DJ Michael Lesar: Thrift meets vinyl at this curated secondhand shopping zone, with Michael Lesar spinning vinyl classics for stylish treasure hunters.

Oneplan Dognation Insta Booth & Doggy Fashion Show: Capture pup-perfect moments in themed photo zones — PupChella, Paw Springs, and Padel Pawty. Dress your dog in their spring best for a chance to win during the ever-popular Doggy Fashion Show.
Plus, tag and with to enter the giveaway.

Date-a-Dog with CLAW: Spend time with rescue dogs from Community Led Animal Welfare (CLAW) — walk them, cuddle them, or just chill. Who knows, you might meet your next best friend.

Limited-Edition 10-Year TLM Merch: Celebrate a decade of local magic with exclusive merch — think bold hoodies, beanies, and totes. Designed with love, available in limited drops.



WHAT YOU NEED TO REMEMBER

Dates: Saturday, 27th September
Sunday 28th September

Tickets: R60pp (Kids u/12 enter free) | Available at thelindenmarket.com or at the gate
BUY HERE

Time: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Venue: Emmarentia Botanical Gardens, Johannesburg

Parking: Secure parking at Roosevelt High School (R30 per vehicle)

01/09/2025

KENNY G SOUTH AFRICAN TOUR:
JUST ONE MONTH TO GO AND TICKETS ARE SELLING FAST

Wednesday, 1 October 2025: Durban ICC, Durban
Thursday, 2 October 2025: Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town
Friday, 3 October 2025: Superbowl, Sun City, North West
Saturday, 4 October 2025: SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria

Tickets on sale from https://breakout.events/

THE LEGENDARY SAXOPHONIST BRINGS HIS SMOOTH JAZZ MAGIC TO SOUTH AFRICA THIS OCTOBER

Johannesburg, Monday, 1 September 2025 – The countdown has begun. In just one month, South Africa will welcome back the smooth jazz icon himself – Kenny G – for an unforgettable four-city tour this October. And by overwhelming demand, an additional show at the legendary Sun City Superbowl has been added to the lineup, giving fans yet another chance to experience his timeless magic live.


Audiences in Durban, Cape Town, Sun City, and Pretoria will be treated to an extraordinary evening of breathtaking melodies, soulful improvisation, and the signature smooth jazz sound that has made Kenny G one of the most beloved instrumentalists in the world. From cherished classics like “Songbird” and “Forever in Love” to new material from his latest album, this tour promises a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of music, emotion, and artistry.

“It’s been way too long since our last visit to South Africa. We had an incredible time performing for such a warm and passionate audience. We are really looking forward to finally coming back to share our music with all of you again,” says Kenny G.

With a career spanning over four decades, more than 75 million albums sold worldwide, and a GRAMMY Award under his belt, Kenny G remains one of the best-selling instrumental artists of all time. The addition of Sun City’s Superbowl – a venue synonymous with world-class performances – ensures that this South African tour will be nothing short of historic.

Kenny G South African Tour Dates
• Durban – Wednesday, 1 October 2025 – Durban ICC
Tickets: Webtickets
• Cape Town – Thursday, 2 October 2025 – Grand Arena, GrandWest
Tickets: Webtickets
• Sun City – Friday, 3 October 2025 – Sun City Superbowl
Tickets: Webtickets
• Pretoria – Saturday, 4 October 2025 – SunBet Arena, Time Square
Tickets: Webtickets

Tickets are on sale now via Breakout Events and Webtickets. Fans are strongly encouraged to book early – demand is high, and tickets are selling fast.

This October, the stage is set, the saxophone is ready, and Kenny G is returning to South Africa. Don’t miss the chance to be part of a tour that promises to be as smooth, soulful, and unforgettable as the man himself.

Tickets on sale now from https://breakout.events/

Connect with Kenny G:
Official Website: Kenny G
Instagram: Kenny G () • Instagram photos and videos
TikTok: Kenny G () Official | TikTok
Facebook: Kenny G
X: Kenny G () / X
YouTube: KennyGVEVO - YouTube
Spotify: Kenny G Songs, Albums, Bio & More | Spotify

Connect with BreakOut Events:
Official Website: Breakout Events
Facebook: Breakout Events
Instagram: Breakout Events () • Instagram photos and videos
TikTok: Breakout Events

28/08/2025

Remembering Tshidi Madia: A Trailblazer in South African Political Journalism

Matshidiso "Tshidi" Madia, a respected political journalist and Associate Editor for Politics at Eyewitness News (EWN), tragically passed away on August 27, 2025, at the age of 42, following a brief illness. Her untimely death has left a significant void in South Africa's media landscape.
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Early Life and Education

Born on August 23, 1983, in Johannesburg, Tshidi Madia grew up in a household where political discussions were commonplace, sparking her early interest in public affairs. She pursued a degree in Communications with a focus on journalism and politics at the University of Johannesburg, graduating in 2008 .
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Career Highlights

Madia began her journalism career at Primedia Broadcasting, initially assisting at EWN's traffic desk. She then joined Power FM as part of its inaugural team, serving as a reporter and presenter. Later, she moved to News24, where she played a pivotal role in its political reporting. In 2022, she returned to EWN as a senior political reporter and was subsequently promoted to Associate Editor: Politics .
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Throughout her career, Madia was known for her incisive analysis and commitment to objective reporting. She gained national recognition for her podcast, Politricking with Tshidi Madia, where she engaged with South Africa's top political figures, offering audiences nuanced insights into national politics and governance .
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Notable Achievements

Exclusive Interviews: Madia secured one-on-one interviews with prominent political figures, including President Cyril Ramaphosa and former President Jacob Zuma.
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International Reporting: She reported from the Oval Office during a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and President Cyril Ramaphosa, challenging false narratives about South Africa on the international stage .
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Mentorship: Beyond her reporting, Madia was a dedicated mentor to aspiring journalists, particularly women, fostering the next generation of media professionals.
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Tributes and Legacy

Madia's passing has elicited tributes from across the political and media spectrum. Deputy President Paul Mashatile described her as "most certainly the darling of the media," praising her professionalism and incisiveness. The South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF) lauded her as "a formidable and respected voice in the country’s political landscape," highlighting her commitment to ethical journalism and her influence as a mentor .
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Her family remembered her as "a respected journalist who loved South Africa deeply and devoted her career to telling its stories," underscoring the profound impact she had both professionally and personally.
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Conclusion

Tshidi Madia's legacy as a fearless and insightful political journalist continues to inspire. Through her work, she not only informed the public but also held power to account, embodying the principles of integrity and dedication. Her contributions to South African journalism will not be forgotten.
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For a deeper understanding of her work, you can explore her podcast series, Politricking with Tshidi Madia, available on YouTube

28/08/2025

The Three Maluleke Sisters Leading Some of South Africa’s Most Influential Companies

Tsakani, Basani, and Refilwe Maluleke are three sisters who have risen to the top of their fields, holding senior positions at some of South Africa’s most powerful institutions.

Growing up in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria, the sisters were raised by parents who valued education deeply. Their mother was a teacher, and their father, a lawyer, believed strongly in giving his children the best opportunities possible.

During the unrest of the late apartheid years, their schooling in the township was constantly disrupted — with police raids and teargas becoming a regular occurrence. Concerned for their daughters’ future, their parents enrolled them at St Andrew’s School for Girls in Johannesburg. The transition was difficult, with the sisters having to repeat some years, but it set them on a path that would later see them excel academically and professionally.

Tsakani Maluleke – South Africa’s Auditor-General

Tsakani made history in 2020 when she became the first woman in more than a century to be appointed as Auditor-General of South Africa.

Her academic journey began at the University of Cape Town, where she completed a BCom in Accounting (1996) followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy (1997). By 2001, she had qualified as a Chartered Accountant and Registered Auditor, training at PwC before taking on senior roles at Worldwide Capital, the Eastern Cape Development Corporation, and Izingwe Holdings.

Tsakani has held leadership roles across finance, investment, and audit, including serving as President of the Association for the Advancement of Black Accountants. She later became an Audit Partner at Deloitte before joining the Auditor-General’s office in 2012. She served as Deputy Auditor-General and CEO of the office in 2014 — another first for a woman — before stepping into the top role in 2020.

Today, she continues to champion accountability and financial responsibility, particularly within municipalities struggling to achieve clean audits.

Basani Maluleke – Breaking Barriers in Banking

Following in her sister’s footsteps, Basani also studied BCom Accounting at UCT, later completing an LLB (2001). She qualified as an attorney but soon pivoted to finance, finding her niche in corporate finance at Rand Merchant Bank.

In 2009, she earned an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management (USA), which helped propel her career further. After a stint as Head of Private Clients at FNB, she transitioned into leadership roles at African Bank, where she was appointed CEO in 2018 — becoming the first Black woman to lead a South African bank.

After three years, she joined Capitec, where she has quickly risen through the ranks: first as Divisional Executive of Business Solutions, then Operations, and in July 2025, she became Group Executive of Retail, overseeing the bank’s core products.

Refilwe Maluleke – Marketing Visionary

Refilwe took a different path, studying Business Science at UCT and later completing an MBA at Cass Business School in London.

She launched her career at Unilever in 2006, later moving to SAB, where she worked as both Brand and Marketing Manager. She then joined Yellowwood Future Architects as Strategy Director, eventually becoming Managing Director in 2018.

Her career also included senior leadership at TBWA\ South Africa, where she served as Chief Strategy Officer. In 2024, she took on her current role as Executive Head of Marketing for Discovery Health and Vitality Health International (Africa).

A Legacy of Leadership

From Soshanguve to the boardrooms of South Africa’s most influential companies, the Maluleke sisters have shown how resilience, education, and determination can break barriers. Tsakani is a trailblazer in public accountability, Basani a pioneer in banking leadership, and Refilwe a visionary in marketing.

Together, they stand as an inspiring example of how one family’s commitment to education and excellence can shape leaders who leave a lasting mark on their industries — and on South Africa.

28/08/2025

Joy of Jazz’s Ignite Her Soul X-Perience Celebrates Women and the Legacy of the iconic Mam’Letta Mbulu
Her Story. Her Music. Her Legacy

Johannesburg, South Africa — August 2025
Following the remarkable success of the inaugural Ignite Her Soul X-Perience last year — where music lovers came together to applaud the incomparable talent of singer/songwriter Lira, the celebration once again returns to present a powerful new chapter.
On Sunday, August 24, the Ignite Her Soul X-Perience shined its spotlight on one of South Africa’s impeccable icon — the legendary Mam’Letta Mbulu, whose voice and spirit have inspired generations across the globe.
With her timeless songs woven into the fabric of South Africa’s cultural story, Mam’Letta Mbulu stands as the perfect muse for this year’s celebration, embodying both the spirit of resilience and the joy of creative expression.
This commemorative spin-off from the famed Joy of Jazz, staged in honour of Women’s Month, was hosted at the Thaba Eco Hotel in Johannesburg and embodied more than just performances. The do honoured the contribution of women across creative, corporate and advocacy spaces.
Through music, dance and storytelling, the day event celebrated women’s achievements, empower voices, promote gender equality, and inspired future generations to continue building on the legacy of those who came before them.
At the heart of this year’s celebration was recognising the life and work of a giant who has graced stages around the world with her rich voice, blending traditional South African sounds with jazz, soul and gospel influences.
Known as the “roots lady”, Mam’Letta Mbulu’s collaborations with international greats such as Harry Belafonte, Cannonball Adderley and Quincy Jones positioned her as a cultural ambassador for South Africa during a time when the nation’s voices were often silenced. To celebrate her in 2025 is to celebrate strength, global recognition, and the timeless power of women’s creativity.
Earlier this year, in April, she was further honoured with an honorary Doctor of Music degree by Nelson Mandela University at the age of 82.
While the event paid homage to one of South Africa’s most beloved icons, it also opened space for dialogue and inspiration.
By highlighting Mam’Letta Mbulu’s extraordinary career alongside other female trailblazers, the gathering affirmed the profound contributions of women across fields, creating a platform where challenges and triumphs are shared openly.
Ignite Her Soul X-Perience underscored the importance of inclusivity and equality in the arts and beyond, while sparking ambition among young women who were in attendance—from students and emerging creatives to youth leaders and scholars who are passionate about shaping the future.
Guests enjoyed a natural harvest table experience, enhanced by an earthy, multi-colour aesthetic featu